The Chief Imam of Yoruba Central Mosque, Otukpo, Benue State, Mallam Suleiman Abdulazak, has called on religious faithful, especially Muslims and Christians in the area, to continue to tolerate one another and live in peace among themselves, particularly during this period of Ramadan and Lent, in order to receive God’s blessings.
The Imam, who gave the charge on Thursday while speaking with The Voice in Otukpo, noted that Islam and Christianity are religions of peace, and therefore, adherents must be peaceful in their daily conduct. According to him, Islam and Christianity are one, as they all preach the gospels of God that lead to Paradise.
He stressed that this year’s convergence of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim Ramadan is a demonstration of such oneness, insisting that followers ought to take note of this uniqueness and amend their lives.
Explaining the significance and benefits of observing the Lenten and Ramadan periods together, the Muslim cleric said: “The commencement of the Christian Lent with the Muslim Ramadan on the same day this year shows we are one and serves as an opportunity for interfaith unity and understanding for us. Both periods of fasting and reflection promote spiritual growth, self-discipline, and empathy for the less privileged. This overlapping encourages mutual respect and collaboration between Christian and Muslim communities, fostering dialogue and shared experiences of devotion. It also highlights the universal values of charity, humility, and introspection. By observing these sacred times together, people of both faiths can build stronger bonds, enrich their understanding of each other, and deepen their collective commitment to peace and compassion.”
Mallam Suleiman appreciated God and religious leaders in the area for the relative peace enjoyed in the land over the years, pointing out that there had been no serious misunderstanding among members of the various religions in Otukpo and indeed Benue South, and called for its sustenance. He used the opportunity to sympathize with the people of the area and other parts of the state who have suffered frequent attacks from armed bandits over the years, stressing that the Muslim Community is with them in their moments of grief.
